Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has officially assumed the role of CEO for her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, after an extended search for external leadership failed to yield results. The move comes as the brand grapples with mounting delays, legal challenges, and internal shakeups.
A Struggling Venture
Launched with fanfare earlier this year, American Riviera Orchard has yet to release its promised product line, despite earlier announcements of a 2024 launch. Insiders reveal that the initial CEO search stalled by April, leading Markle to step into the leadership role herself. “She is the CEO of American Riviera Orchard,” a source confirmed to columnist Richard Eden.
Markle’s decision to take the reins underscores her commitment to the brand, even as it faces significant hurdles. Trademark disputes have plagued the project, with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejecting the brand’s name in September. Officials cited the inability to trademark geographical locations, and rival lifestyle brand Harry & David protested the similarity to their “Royal Riviera” product line.
To address these issues, Markle’s team recently requested a three-month extension from the USPTO. Failure to resolve the dispute by the next deadline could force the Duchess to restart the trademark application process entirely.
Internal Turmoil and Delays
High turnover among the Sussexes’ staff has also raised eyebrows. Earlier this year, their chief of staff, Josh Kettler, resigned after just three months, adding to a list of 18 staff departures over the past four years.
Despite the setbacks, Markle remains optimistic. Insiders suggest she has been diligently preparing for the brand’s official debut. “It’s going to be a good year for Meghan specifically,” a Hollywood source told Page Six. “She’s been working behind the scenes to launch something big in early 2025.”
Markle has offered a glimpse of the brand’s vision through small gestures, such as gifting jars of jam from American Riviera Orchard to friends and influencers earlier this year, sparking curiosity on social media.
A Royal Pivot to Business
The Duchess’ move to helm the brand aligns with her broader ambitions, including her upcoming Netflix cooking show, set to debut in mid-2025. Though she has not publicly commented on her new role as CEO, sources close to the couple insist that Markle is determined to turn American Riviera Orchard into a success story.
As Markle transitions from royalty to corporate leadership, her ability to overcome these challenges will likely define the trajectory of her brand—and her legacy as a business leader.